A How-to-Guide on Creating How-To-Videos
During the pandemic many have turned to doing-it-yourself (DIY’s) projects around the house. As a result many have resorted to online videos. I am no different and have turned to these DIY videos and have lost valuable time listening to useless information.
Try the following guide to put your video together:
- Write out your outline and treat that as your checklist
Essentials on that outline:
A. This video is about ____________
B. This video will demonstrate (Number)Steps
C. Name the steps
Step 1 (Tools needed)
Step 2 (What to next)
Step 3 (What to do last)
2. Record the video
Enunciate your words/speak clearly/hire someone to narrate
Good lighting
Good Audio
Work you are performing is clearly visible (mount camera where it won’t need to be readjusted)
Consider naming the sponsors as you do the work if your agreement allows for this.
4. Edit your video
Check for and edit things out like:
Heavy breathing
Background sounds
No sounds
A repetitive demonstration and choose to give the amount of times that action is done. Speak the number of times as you do the action. For example, “turn the dial like so 20 times” or “you will turn the dial 20 times this way”.
Provide spelled out instructions
Provide a list of items used and possibly mention brand.
5. If there are tricks you used or reasons for your preferences use the last part of the video to elaborate and explain.
